Re: US Digital Shaft Encoder and VersaChassis Hex Shaft
 

I would like to add a warning about hot glue. Only use it on encoders used for speed sensing, if you need to sense position please use a set screw, press fitting or some other method that assures the shafts is locked down. I realize that the OP has specifically said it is for the drive train and thus we can concluded that these are for speed sensing. That said I personally made the mistake of applying that to a hall-effect pot which has lead to some unpleasant failures this year. I hope that no one ever makes the mistake I did.

Re: US Digital Shaft Encoder and VersaChassis Hex Shaft
 

We have used hot glue to get a good fit in the VersaChassis hex shaft in the past with great results.

This year we hot glued the encoder in the shaft, but ended up breaking one of our encoders (the shaft seized up). Likely due to shock and shifting alignment on the encoder. You know, catching air over defenses and all.

To echo one of the previous suggestions, I would highly recommend using a helical beam coupling to protect the encoder from shock and so you don't have to stress out too much about alignment. Especially for this game. Since we seized up the one encoder, we've moved to using a helical beam coupling and have had no issues.

Re: US Digital Shaft Encoder and VersaChassis Hex Shaft
 

Surgical tubing and zip ties do this better and far cheaper than a beam coupling. It's one of the best solutions we've shamelessly copied from other teams.

Re: US Digital Shaft Encoder and VersaChassis Hex Shaft
 

Here's a picture of our solution. It's a 3D printed 1/2" hex to 1/4" D-Shaft (the one on the encoder) coupler. We also have the 3D printed mounting brackets. Probably overkill, but we haven't had any issues with the encoder seizing up throughout 12 matches this season, and countless practice hours.

http://i.imgur.com/5u2Yvzb.jpg?1

I can send you the CAD if you want.

(PS. It's the bright orange)